Chiang Rai

After staying in a village near Chiang Rai and harvesting pineapples, we visited Wat Rong Khun. This is a contemporary Buddhist temple intricately designed and completely white. Afterwards, we continued staying in various Akha villages in the Chiang Rai region. Many Akha live in hill tribes in Northern Thailand. Many speak Akha Language and believe in Akha Zo religion, a mix of animism and ancestor worship. We also stopped by the Myanmar-Thailand border.

Pineapples ready for harvest

Scenic view of pineapple field

Wat Rong Khun

Eerie mask at Wat Rong Khun

Wooden, “spirit” gate marking the division of the Akha village and the wild world